Barron Cuadro

Gents, it’s hot out.

The minute you step outside, you feel the oppressive sun beating down and the moisture floating in the air. You’re doing your best to not melt down into a sweaty puddle on the ground.

You’re wiping your brow constantly; your clothes stick to your back, forming abstract sweat blots like a Rorschach test.

How’s an effortless gent like you supposed to dress well and stay cool? This, my friend, is one of those situations where you can have your cake and eat it too.

In this guide, I’m going to lay out everything you need to know to dress sharp in men’s clothes for hot, humid weather — the best summer clothes for men, how they should fit, the ideal fabrics and colors — while staying as cool and sweat-free as possible.

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Just so you know, this is a pretty extensive article! Feel free to jump around using the links below.

The Best Summer Colors, Fabric, and FitBack To Top

You know how the clothing we wear in winter is generally heavier, darker, and more substantial? Same goes for the summer styles men look best in, except the complete opposite: everything is lighter, brighter, and lacking in heft and bulk.

Let’s break each one down:

The best colors for summer clothesBack To Top

summer clothes for men - nantucket red shorts with a light blue button up shirt sunglasses and brown loafers — Via Lookastic

In general, you’ll want to wear light colors in the summer. Lighter colors will keep you cool as they reflect the most light. So white, light blue, light grey, and tan / khaki are all “neutrals” (i.e. colors that can serve as your base and go well with all other colors in an outfit).

Navy and olive also fall into the neutrals category, but since they’re not light colors, we’ll ignore them for now.

alessandro squarzi wearing blue check shirt and chinos with colorful accessories for men — via The Sartorialist

Summer is a great time to add brighter pops of color as well.

If you’re just learning how to incorporate more color, start by adding them in with smaller outfit details like pocket squares, bracelets, sunglasses, and watch straps.

If you’re more advanced and experimental, throw in a vibrant, stand-out piece, like a sport coat or colorful chinos.

The best fabrics for summer clothesBack To Top

For men’s clothes for hot, humid weather, summer-weight or lightweight wool, linen, and cotton will be your best friends. Loosely-woven fabrics such as these will keep the air flowing freely while still looking sharp.

In case you’re worried about linen and wrinkling… yes, linen tends to wrinkle, but that’s OK. I wouldn’t worry too much about it. Embrace the wrinkles!

Plus, when you’re in hot, humid weather, the fabric will relax and some of the wrinkles will fall off anyway. But for summer styles, men don’t need to stress. It’s natural to experience wrinkles with this fabric, so it’s not a big issue.

How summer clothes should fitBack To Top

loose summer layers mens grey t-shirt and off-white wrap waistband cream mens trousers — via The Sartorialist

In general, clothes should fit how they always do, no matter the season. However, for summer styles, men tend to prefer things a bit looser.

Don’t get me wrong, your outfits should still be sharp, and should still have a nice, fitted silhouette… but if you want to go a tad bit looser, do it. More room between your skin and the fabric will allow for more air to circulate, which will keep you cooler, longer.

In a hurry? Why not email yourself a copy to read later?

Just so you know, this article will be incredibly useful, but it’s a long one with lots of info to digest!

If you want to save it for later, I created a free bonus PDF that you can save to your phone, tablet, or wherever else you read digital things.

Outfit Specifics: “What clothes should I add to my closet?”Back To Top

Before recommending specific summer clothes or capsule wardrobes for you, first decide how you need to dress.

Do you need to dress more formally (maybe you have an office job that requires you to suit up) or casually (every other situation, from running errands around town to getting drinks and dinner with your Sig O)?

Formal and Business: How to wear a suit and tie in hot weatherBack To Top

If you’re required to wear a suit to work, you will get hot. Hopefully the AC doesn’t break down on your way to the office so you don’t cross the Sweat Threshold (my term for when you start sweating, and once reaching that point, you can’t stop).

I don’t think there’s a way around it, but there are ways to minimize how hot you get in your suit and tie. You’ll have to pay attention to the cloth and the color.

“What kind of fabric should my summer suit be made from?”Back To Top

Suits can be made from a number of different cloths. To keep it simple, for a men’s summer style suit, you want to find something in a lightweight wool, cotton, linen, or a blend of those three.

Ideally, your suit will be partially lined and unstructured. Suit jackets can come unlined, half lined (front panel, shoulders, and sleeves), or quarter lined (sleeves and shoulders, or sleeves only).

Why this matters: Having a partially-lined jacket means there’s one less layer trapping the heat in, and less sweating for you.

If you head to SuitSupply (or any shop that knows suits) right now and ask to see their summer-weight suits, they will know what you’re talking about. Generally, the suits are lighter, both in weight and in color, and the weaves of summer-specific fabrics are more open.

Why this matters: They breathe better, more air gets through, and you stay cooler.

“Are some colors better than others for summer suits?”Back To Top

As far as specific fabric color, if appropriate for the event or the venue, I’d go with a light to medium grey suit, tan, cream, or brighter blues. Again, it’s going to depend on where you’re headed, as far as what’s appropriate, so you’ll have to make a judgment call there.

Your classic charcoal and navy could also work, but I tend to get hotter in darker colors and I imagine most others feel the same way. Then again, they’re classics for a reason, and you can’t go wrong with muted, somber colors such as these. If you stick with lighter-weight fabrics like I discussed in the previous section, you should be okay, temperature-wise.

“What about shirts, ties, and shoes?”Back To Top

Same goes for your shirts. There are plenty of dress shirt fabric options, but find one made from a lightweight, open weave cloth. The most common and easiest ones to find will probably be lightweight oxford and linen cotton blend shirts.

Shirt colors: The staple white and light blue, of course. You can also go with a subtle stripe in blue / white or grey / white if you’re aiming for maximum versatility. As far as stripe width, I personally prefer the candy and awning stripe widths, though it’s up to you. You can also go with more vibrant colors, which work great against a neutral grey, navy, or tan.

For ties, what’s most important is to keep it seasonally consistent. So no thick wool ties. Go with something lighter weight in wool, cotton, and silk. Knits are also a good option for men’s summer style dress clothing.

As far as shoes for business or formal wear, stick to an oxford in brown or black. If you have a bit of leeway, you can go with a tassel loafer.

Smart, Sharp Casual: How to dress sharp in men’s clothes for hot, humid weatherBack To Top

Smart, sharp casual describes outfits you’d wear in everyday life situations that aren’t any of the two extremes:

Formal: black tie, white tie, or business environments
Casual or Activity-specific: lounging at home, performing manual labor, or participating in a physical activity (sports, the gym)

So if you’re not sitting on the couch, mowing the lawn, or doing 5 sets of 5 in the squat rack, you would be dressing smart sharp casual.

A bare-bones, capsule wardrobe for summerBack To Top

If you’re looking to buy clothes and want a smart, sharp casual men’s summer style, look no further! Here are some suggestions below.

Shorts

3 pairs of shorts, either in linen (or linen blend) or cotton chino. Best colors would be a lighter blue, darker blue, and one in a brighter color, like this faded red. Standard khaki-colored chino shorts are also great to own, of course.

Shop Here: Todd Snyder, Bonobos, J.Crew

Chinos

2-3 pairs of chinos. These look sharp and are much better in warm weather than heavy denim. You can’t go wrong with navy, medium grey, khaki, and one fun color like faded red or mint green.

Shop Here: Todd Snyder and Bonobos fun color chinos

Shirts

2-4 shirts. I love linen shirts in the summer. I also wear a lot of OCBDs (year round, really) in white and light blue, or a light stripe (grey and white, blue and white).

Shop Here: Todd Snyder linen options, Uniqlo OCBDs, J.Crew linen options

Short Sleeve Shirts

2-4 short sleeve shirts: I’d go with linen, cotton, or a blend, in either short-sleeve button-ups or polos. For polos, slub cotton is my favorite (which is what you see above), but basic pique works too. Can’t go wrong with a white, navy, or gray, and two others in fun color and pattern combinations.

Remember, with a lean wardrobe, having one stand-out piece is easy to incorporate because it will go well with all your other neutral colors.

Shop Here: Todd Snyder polos, Bonobos fun short sleeve shirts, Banana Republic polos, J.Crew short sleeve shirts

Shoes

3 pairs of shoes: One white leather sneaker, a tan or brown driving shoe, a grey or tan loafer

Shop Here: Greats white sneakers, M.Gemi drivers, Allen Edmonds loafers

Sportcoat

These are three examples of super versatile sport coats: one in a medium grey, one in a brighter blue, and lastly, one in a brown check.

Ideally, you’d have all three, but depending on your specific men’s summer style, you may not need all three (or maybe you need more, who knows). The best sport coats for summer are linen or a linen blend, usually with cotton, wool, or silk. They’re also half-lined, unstructured, 2-button single-breasted, and double-vented. Double vents are my preference, though it’s not imperative yours be double-vented.

If you have your classics covered, don’t be afraid to experiment with pattern and texture, even if it’s subtle.

By the way, these jackets are from SuitSupply. Check out the cloth close up in the image below:

Shop Here: SuitSupply medium grey, brighter blue, brown jackets

If you wanted to go the Made-to-Measure or Custom route, Oliver Wicks has a grey windowpane wool and linen jacket and many other summer suit options. You can buy both as full suits.

Socks

In the summer, I go with no-show socks or shoe inserts. The ones you see above are my favorites.

Shop Here: For inserts, I go with Zederna cedar inserts, or Pedag Deo-Fresh inserts. For no-show socks, I like Falke and Uniqlo’s no-show socks.

Undershirts

I like my undershirts to be invisible; I don’t even want to know I’m wearing one.

I look for shirts made from a thin cotton or cotton blend (sometimes synthetic too, i.e. the shirt on the right), in light grey, with a V-neck. This is the style you want to wear underneath light-colored and lightweight shirts; they won’t show through like white undershirts tend to do.

These are my two favorites.

Shop Here: RibbedTee’s Retro Fit Tri Blend in Heather Grey, Uniqlo’s Airism line

Accessories (optional)

Sunglasses

If you already have a standard pair of black or brown tortoise shell frame sunglasses, go with something fun and colorful for summer.

Shop Here: Chimi Eyewear, Ray-ban Clubmaster w/ reflective lenses

Hats

In the summer, I usually travel with a straw fedora. They look great, provide sun protection, and best of all, are packable… assuming you buy the right ones.

Shop Here: Goorin Bros. packable fedoras (here)

Belts

A dark brown leather belt is always good to have; it will match all your shoe options. Sometimes, though, you want something a little more fun, especially in the summer when you want to wear more color. So, something like these braided, webbed belts are the perfect men’s summer style.

Shop Here: Anson, Todd Snyder

NATO straps

You can usually swap out the factory band on your watch and replace it with a colorful NATO strap. It’s an easy way to add a bit more color to your outfit without going full pink seersucker or something equally in-yo-face.

Shop Here: Amazon carries two brands that have a wide selection, BluShark and ClockworkSynergy. Many men’s stores carry their own watch straps as well.

Putting together your summer outfitsBack To Top

I think the best advice I can give for putting together great outfits every day can be summed up in three words: Don’t Be Scared.

Every question I receive from guys about how to put together outfits always sound so anxious and apprehensive, like if they wear the “wrong” combination, they’re going to set off a bomb or something equally terrible will happen.

The most common questions are usually something like, “How do I wear X with Y?” and “Does A go with Z?”

The answer to #1 is: Put on X first, then put on Y.
The answer to #2 is YES

You simply can’t go wrong with a wardrobe full of neutrals, and 1-2 pops of bright, vibrant color… nor can you go wrong with an outfit of solid colors, and 1-2 patterns.

I don’t mean to sound harsh, but look, you’re supposed to have fun with dressing well. If you put together a less-than-ideal look, and you don’t realize it until later, who cares? It’s just clothing. Put stuff on, have fun with your men’s summer style, go on with your day.

And by the way, YES, you can wear a long-sleeve linen or OCBD with shorts. Just roll up your sleeves if you’re hot. Don’t be so buttoned up, it’s summer, for god’s sake.

Men’s summer style examplesBack To Top

Anyway, because I love you, here are a few outfits I threw together from the pieces I suggested for your summer capsule wardrobe in the previous section.

Outfit 1: Laid-Back Dressed Up

This is a good example of a laid-back version of “dressed up”. The khaki chinos and light blue linen shirt are an easy pair, and with the brown drivers, is a great outfit on its own. The multi-colored brown webbed belt is a subtle color addition, along with the shades.

If you’re headed to a nice venue (dinner at a classy restaurant, drinks at a fancy bar), throw on your blue sport coat, and you’re all set.

Outfit 2: Poolside Happy Hour

This outfit reminds me of a night out in Miami; it’s something I’d wear if I’m going out to grab happy hour drinks and bites at Cecconi’s (best HH in Miami Beach).

Notice how the chinos are the only bright pop of color (not including the shades, but that’s OK); everything else is subtle and neutral.

Outfit 3: Sharp in Shorts

Shorts can be sharp! Find a dark pair in linen or cotton, pair it with a white linen shirt, clean white sneakers, and a tan fedora. Sunglasses optional (but it’s summer, so you probably are carrying them around everyday regardless).

Outfit 4: Understated and No-Nonsense

If you’re a fan of understated, no-nonsense looks, this outfit is for you. Dusty navy chinos, a grey slub cotton polo, and tan loafers. Super easy, you look sharp, and you still have a bit of color in that outfit with the awesome belt and shades.

Outfit 5: Al Fresco Dinner

I wanted to throw this example in to show you how to dress up colorful chinos. Essentially, you treat them as if they were your standard khaki or navy, but the key is to make sure everything else is subtle and neutral. I’m a fan of fun shades, so if that’s another pop of color you happen to be wearing, that’s totally fine.

Wrapping UpBack To Top

If you’ve made it this far, you’re ready to dress sharp in men’s clothes for hot, humid weather!

Now you have a good idea of what fabrics and colors to choose, and how your clothes should fit when it’s warm out. You also have a solid list of clothing recommendations and ideas for how to put them together into different outfits.

Dressing well isn’t tough, regardless of the season. You just have to be strategic with what you wear and the cloth you choose, so you can look great while still remaining as cool as a cucumber.

Hope this helps! Anything else I can answer? Leave your questions in the comments below.

Enjoy this guide? Why not email yourself a copy to read again later?

Did you find this guide incredibly useful? It’s long with lots of info to digest, so why not save a copy to take with you on the go?

I created a free bonus PDF that you can save to your phone, tablet, or wherever else you read digital things.

Summer Clothes For Men: What To Wear In Hot, Humid Weather

I remember the first necklace I ever owned. It was a tiny gold chain—small enough for a 5 year old’s neck—and a small rectangle charm with a capital D on it (for my first name, Daniel).

I don’t actually know the backstory of this necklace and charm, only that it’s had a persistent role in my childhood memories. My parents must’ve given it to me when I was young, and that was that. I just wore it without thinking much of it.

I recently visited home and happened to find this charm again. I’ve always kept it in a safe place with a few other necklaces and things I’ve stopped wearing over the years.

But even though I no longer wore them, I never wanted to get rid of them.

I guess that’s what happens when you hold onto old things. Their age, in addition to the simple fact that you’ve held onto them for so long, is what makes them special.

When I see that charm, I think of my youth, of being a young kid growing up through middle school and high school, all the friends that have come and gone, the places I’ve visited, the experiences I’ve had… and even though I wasn’t always wearing this charm throughout the years, it’s become a symbolic representation of the memories of my past.

It’s been a constant in my life… something always within reach and full of my own personal history (or at least an easy reminder of it).

And so before leaving my parents’ place to head back to NYC, I threw it on a chain and started wearing it again.

Be Intentional With Your Accessories (And Your Style!)

So, why did I just tell you that story?

Well, it all ties in to this idea of accessorizing.

I want to convince you to start wearing accessories (if you aren’t already). But not just wear them… I want you to think about your accessories and make intentional decisions about what you wear.

Why is this important?

I’m going to walk you through it all, and this thought process applies not only to accessories but your personal style as a whole, from your clothes and shoes, to your home, your lifestyle, the way you travel, etc., so you want to pay attention.

But thinking about and applying these ideas to all of those things all at once can be intimidating, so I want to make it much easier and focus on your accessories.

To simplify it even further, let’s focus specifically on bracelets.

Much easier, right?

Why wear accessories at all?

“What’s the point? Why bother accessorizing? Don’t I just need a watch and a wedding ring if I’m married? Why should I care at all?”

Look, I realize wearing accessories can seem pointless, “extra”, or maybe even intimidating and confusing—just like dressing better can seem to the uninitiated—but it doesn’t have to be.

Think of it this way: wearing accessories is like adding chopped chives onto a plate of perfectly cooked scrambled eggs, or grating fresh parmesan cheese on top of a piping hot plate of pasta.

Accessories are the extra 10% that make your whole outfit.

On top of that, it’s an easy way to express yourself, to make your entire look more interesting, and to show that you pay attention to the little details.

So before you decide to slap a bunch of shit on your wrists and fingers and call it a day, I suggest taking a more intentional approach.

And this means procuring and curating a nice set of accessories over time… all with an individual meaning to you.

So what would be the best way to start?

How to choose your accessories

OK let’s bring our focus back to bracelets so we have a simplified example.

By the way, shout out to our friends at Azuro Republic for partnering with us on this article! You’ll see examples of their incredible bracelets throughout. You’re also able to shop any of the bracelets you see by visiting their site.

So when you’re choosing a bracelet to wear, these are some things you may consider:

“What have I seen and liked?”

Maybe you have a friend, an older brother, or an uncle who wears a cool bracelet that makes you think, “Hmm… I kinda like that!”

Maybe you saw someone online… whether it be some rando influencer on Instagram, a model, or a celebrity who had cool wristwear.

Sometimes, simply seeing someone wear a piece you like can inspire you to try it out for yourself.

“What is the meaning behind this bracelet?”

Values and goals aligned with yours

Sometimes you find a company who’s driven by values and goals that you align with, and you want to support them by wearing their product.

Azuro Republic is a good example of this. I loved what they had to say about their brand’s mission. Here’s an excerpt:

Our goal for Azuro Republic is to bring men of all kinds, races, and beliefs to come together under the common banner of gentlemanly conduct and values.
This is our own, unique way of changing the world for the better not only on an individual level, but on a global scale.
Taking it one step at a time and one person at a time, our goal is to effect a positive impact on the world and transform the face of the modern man will be better achieved when we all come and work together as one.

(You can read their full post here)

Designed with meaning

Maybe the bracelet itself is designed with a specific meaning in mind, or the materials from which they’re made have a history or meaning behind it.

For example, this bracelet is a classic bead bracelet made from 925 silver and a stone called obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic glass. Specifically, this variety is referred to as Apache Tears, a rounded obsidian pebble.

Obsidian has been utilized by countless tribes and cultures over hundreds of thousands of years. ^[1]

Culturally, the name is derived from an old Apache tribe legend^[2], and in this bracelet, have come to represent guardianship and bravery.

Azuro Republic Bracelets Price: Starting at $149

A wearable reminder or talisman

Another thought: accessories can also serve as a reminder of a set of values you strive to embody or traits you want to adopt.

Azuro’s howlite bracelet—howlite is a porous, naturally occurring white mineral—has been designed to symbolize purity, clear mindedness, and focus.

The silver classic Picasso jasper bracelet, apart from being a stunner, is said to bring optimism and openness, attracting positive people and cleansing negative energy.

And by the way, even if you aren’t a particularly spiritual person, or believe in the “woo woo” meanings of things, we all strive to better ourselves, and having bracelets as wearable talismans can serve as constant reminders of what you’re working towards.

A representation of a happy time and place

Or perhaps it’s a bracelet you stumbled upon that now holds a lot of memories and meaning to you because of where you bought it, or a specific time in your life.

One of my most recent pickups was a braided red leather bracelet with a knot on one end and a loop on the other. I bought it at a little seaside shop in a small beach town in Mexico.

My wife Kate and I had the best time talking with the owner and listening to her stories. It also happens to be across the way from our favorite fish taco stand, just a stone’s throw away from the sand and surf.

We discovered these fish tacos 7 years ago during our first visit to this little town, which happened to be the day after I proposed to Kate. We haven’t been back since, so it was nice to visit (and yes, the tacos are still as delicious as we remembered).

On top of that, we were in Mexico to see two of our very good friends get married, and I happened to be officiating their wedding.

This is what I mean by meaning and memories.

Whenever I wear that bracelet—basically any time I leave the house—I’m reminded of these layers of moments across years of intertwined experiences, and all of that is what makes the bracelet so special to me.

“How’s the quality, construction, and value?”

How well was the bracelet made?

Does it feel solid and substantial, like it will stand the test of time?

Also, is there value in this piece?

Basically you want to ask yourself is, “Is what I’m getting worth at least what I’m paying, if not more?”

And in terms of actual cost, maybe you’re willing to pay more for something you consider to be of higher value, whether that be higher quality materials, unique or better construction, or simply a special meaning behind it, similar to my red leather bracelet.

In terms of quality materials and construction, Azuro Republic is a good example of this.

I have to say, when I first received this bracelet, I wasn’t immediately blown away. Maybe I didn’t get it. It was a beaded bracelet… great.

But the more time I spent with it, looking at it closely and wearing it on my wrist, feeling the weight of the obsidian stone and observing the beautifully polished sterling silver, I got it.

I appreciate the attention paid to each detail, down to the display box every bracelet comes in.

Understandably, Azuro Republic’s bracelets aren’t cheap. This isn’t some $2 wooden beaded bracelet you’ll find at a mall kiosk. And if that’s all you’re looking for, this wouldn’t be for you.

But if you’re looking for a piece to add to your collection, a bracelet that’s made from precious metal and stone, uniquely designed and thoughtfully crafted, and beautifully presented in its own case like a fine jewelry piece, Azuro’s bracelets are worth your consideration.

I’ve had several beaded bracelets throughout the years, but none quite this caliber of quality and substance. And if that’s important to you, definitely check them out.

There are several steps that go into designing and making their bracelets. They do a great job of describing each artistic step here.

“Personal expression, man”

Sometimes, you just like something. Or more specifically, you’re drawn to how a bracelet looks.

Or maybe that bracelet just makes you feel cool, or feel good when you wear it, or like you’re taking on a new persona, or maybe you just think it looks great with your outfit that day.

And that’s totally cool too!

You don’t need a specific reason or meaning behind your bracelet to wear it.

But, of course, if you’re procuring and curating your collection over the years, most likely, your items will have a specific meaning behind it…

…either one that it’s designed with, or one that has developed over time because of your relationship with it (like my D charm that I’ve had since I was 5).

My point is: whatever your reason for liking, wanting, or wearing that bracelet, have a reason.

Azuro Republic Bracelets Price: Starting at $149

How to wear accessories

There’s no right or wrong way to wear bracelets, rings, or any combo of accessories.

I personally feel you can wear too much, but then again, some guys can pull it off, while others can’t.

You have to use your best judgement, and if uncertain, err on the side of fewer accessories than more.

Here are a few simple ways to combine your bracelet and other accessories.

Look 1: Simple and Straightforward

Let’s say you don’t wear any accessories at all. A bead bracelet from Azuro would be the perfect way to start.

It’s bold and eye-catching with meaning behind each bead. Plus, it’s all you really need if you’re going for a more minimalist look.

Look 2: With a watch

There’s a good chance you wear a watch, and maybe a wedding ring if you’re married.

Adding a bracelet is a great way to dip your toe into accessorizing, and all you need is one (but you’ll want more, trust me).

Wearing a bold bracelet like this is perfect because if you’re keeping it simple, then one accessory is all you need, and that alone makes an impact without being overwhelming.

Feel free to wear it on the same wrist as your watch, or on the opposite wrist… it’s up to you.

By the way, Azuro has plenty of bracelets to choose from, not just the classic black Obsidian one I have. Here are a few of my favorites:

L to R: Picasso jasper, Chrysanthemum, Red jasper. Browse all bracelets from Azuro Republic

Look 3: Combining multiple bracelets

I love mixing metals, textures, and textiles when I wear accessories. That means stone, metal, woven fabric, leather… all fair game.

Oftentimes my outfits are made up of all menswear neutral colors, and wearing a few colorful accessories complements that nicely without being too over the top.

When I have several bracelets on, I like to wear them on the wrist opposite my watch, but again, there’s no right or wrong way to do it. You can wear a few on the same wrist as your watch if you like that look.

And don’t be afraid to mix metals as well. Both my necklaces are gold, but my watch is steel and my wedding ring is two-toned. My accessories are mixed and matched.

Again, there’s no right or wrong way to do it. But you do need a bit of confidence when mixing and matching, so if you’re even slightly unsure, keep it as simple as possible until you get more comfortable with the mix.

Are you ready to accessorize?

I hope this article inspires you to accessorize more! And more importantly, to do so in an intentional way.

You can use this thought process to build, develop, and evolve your personal style as well.

By being observant about how others dress and thinking about what you’re personally drawn to, you can begin to explore other pieces you might not have otherwise considered.

Thanks to our friends at Azuro Republic for partnering with us on this article! They have incredible bracelets that are literally crafted by hand, all with beautiful stones and precious metals, and a meaningful backstory behind each one.

Check out their collection here.

A Man’s Guide To Choosing and Wearing Bracelets and Accessories

So, you’re a bigger guy, and you want to dress well, but you’re not sure where to start.

Maybe you can’t find clothes that fit right, or you just don’t know if something looks good or not.

Sound familiar?

Well, I hear ya, and I know where you’re coming from.

I used to be a big guy myself—I’m 5’9″ and 15 years ago, at my heaviest, I was 241 lbs and pushing a 40″ waist (!)

Me in my early 20s and 80 lbs heavier than I am today

Luckily (for you), I was always into fashion and my own personal style, so I picked up some tricks along the way that applied to both my bigger self as well as when I was losing weight.

So if you’re looking to dress sharp as a big guy, just follow these tips I’ve laid out for you in this article.

Fashion Tips For Big Guys… in a video?

Damn right!

In the video below, I’m laying out 5 tips to get you started on the right foot. These will apply no matter the kind of style you’re going for.

Hit Play to watch (and subscribe to Effortless Gent’s YouTube channel if you haven’t already!) or if you prefer, continue reading below.

Big Guy Style Tip #1: Understand how clothes should fit YOUR body

So, how exactly should clothes fit on a bigger guy?

You want to use the same fit cues that every guy should use. Your shirts and pants should fit close to your body without being too slim and tight, and also without being too big.

For example: With woven shirts (like collared dress shirts and sport shirts), first make sure the shoulder seam is sitting directly on top of your shoulder bone.

Shirt and pants from Bonobos

From there, how far away can you pull your shirt from your body? If you can pull it away 2-3″, that should give you enough room to move comfortably and sit down while still pulling off that slimmer, more tailored fit.

For pants to fit, they can be a bit closer to your legs, and you want to make sure there’s little to no break (meaning no excess fabric bunching and pooling at your shoes), and a slight taper from the knee down.

You want to avoid excess volume wherever possible, and having a tailored pant leg with little to no break makes you look slimmer.

Bonobos has plenty of choices for big guys

MINI TIP: Sit down in the fitting room when trying on clothes.

Shirts and pants may look good standing up, but when you sit down, it might be a completely different story.

Maybe the shirt is too tight and you can’t move your arms, or the buttons look like they’re gonna pop.

Maybe the pants are too tight in the thighs when you sit, or the waist is simply uncomfortable.

Clothing should be comfortable when seated, as well as when you’re up and walking around.

By the way, tailoring is everything!

Go to a tailor whenever necessary to achieve the best fit; most likely, clothes won’t fit you well off the rack, so this is the extra step you must take.

And you’re not alone; pretty much everyone (aside from models whom most clothes are designed for) has to do this to achieve a tailored fit with off-the-rack clothing.

Big Guy Style Tip #1B: Find cool brands that make your size, and stick with them

If you watch other men’s style YouTube videos, or simply look at models in magazines or in stores, you might think your clothes should / will fit like theirs.

Well, it won’t.

It’s important to find the clothes and brands that work best for your body type.

Yes, that requires you to do a bit of leg work but once you find the brands and fits that work best, you can stick with that brand for life.

Here are two great suggestions to get you started:

Bonobos: Smart, sharp casual fashion for big guys

I love Bonobos for classic smart sharp looks, and it’s a brand I’ve shopped for years.

They recently introduced extended sizes, so basically, their same great clothes but made for bigger guys.

Check Out Bonobos here »

MINI TIP: Go shopping and try on clothing in the afternoon or evening instead of in the morning.

You are your slimmest in the morning and your body expands and gets bigger throughout the day—you rehydrate, you eat meals, you move around, you sweat, etc.

If you shop and try on clothes early in the morning, what feels like a great fit then, may be uncomfortably snug by day’s end.

So, if possible, shop and try on clothes towards the end of the day.

ASOS: Affordable casual and streetwear looks for big guys

ASOS sells casual clothing and streetwear fashion in standard sizes as well as bigger sizes. They have a whole plus size shop that sells awesome (and affordable) streetwear.

Keep in mind, this is more trend-forward stuff, but if that’s your jam, I’d start looking here.

Check Out Asos here »

Big Guy Style Tip #2: Buy affordably (for now)

Trust me, I’m all about buying investment-worthy pieces that look and feel great, that you enjoy wearing, that have great brand reputation and recognition, and are a pleasurable experience to own overall.

But!

Your body changes a lot as you lose weight, so assuming you are on that journey of dropping the pounds, it’s a good idea to buy affordably first.

Save the investment-worthy pieces for when you are at your ideal weight or body composition.

And once you hit your goal, treat yo’self! Grab those higher-quality Lean Wardrobe pieces, knowing that you won’t be having to replace them any time soon.

Side Note: Follow big guys who dress sharp on Instagram

Of course, Instagram can be a huge source of inspiration when you’re trying to figure out how to dress. Follow these stylish bigger guys on Instagram and pay attention to how clothes fit on them.

From L to R: Carpe_DMG, ethandesu, thefattorialist, thebigsartorialist

Big Guy Style Tip #3: Replace your most frequently worn items first!

As you lose weight, your body shrinks, and you’ll need to replace some things.

Otherwise, if you don’t, you’re wearing clothes that are too big for you! And you won’t look like you lost weight at all.

You want to show off all your hard work, right?

So the big tip here is, as you lose weight, to replace the stuff you wear most frequently, first.

Wear a lot of jeans and flannel day to day? Grab new, smaller, affordable versions of those items.

Drowning in your suits? Time for another trip to the tailor!

A rule of thumb is, for every 10-15 (maybe 20) lbs you lose, you go down one shirt size. Of course, this depends on how big you actually are, but for most guys, this is a good estimation to keep in mind.

So if you’re down 25 lbs, there’s a good chance the clothes that fit decently a few months ago are waaay too big on you now.

So replace them!

You’ll feel your best when your clothes fit right and you look sharp… even if you still have a ways to go in your weight loss journey.

MINI TIP: Find pants with a bit of stretch!

Looking sharp doesn’t have to mean being uncomfortable. Find pants with elastane or some other fabric with stretch property to get max comfort while out and about.

Luckily, many brands make pants with stretch properties in them.

My favorite pair of jeans for guys with bigger legs is the Levi’s 541. I even did a whole video on the 541!

Levi's 541 Athletic Taper Jeans Price: $22+

To clarify, I’m not telling you to replace everything in your closet just because you’re down a shirt size or two. I’m simply saying to replace the stuff that gets the most wear.

Replacing these items are what will make the most difference in your everyday confidence and look.

Big Guy Style Tip #4: Set milestones and treat yo’self when you hit them

This may sound a bit contradictory to tip #2 (buy affordably), but hear me out.

Going through the process of losing weight is an emotional experience. It takes a lot out of you! It’s a ton of hard work!

And because of this, I suggest setting little milestones for yourself, and once you hit those milestones, treat yourself to something nice.

It could simply be a pair of jeans or a button-up shirt that’s, say, double the price of what you’d normally buy. Or maybe a new pair of sneakers you’ve been eyeing.

For example, I remember when I started my own weight loss journey way back in 2005, I wore a size 38″ in pants and XL shirts.

In fact, the 38″ waist started to feel a bit tight, so sometimes I had to size up to a 40″ waist ?

I’m not that tall (5’9″) so you can imagine how rotund I was.

So one day, it hit me, and I got really serious about losing weight. I was dropping, on average, 5 lbs every two weeks!

After 2.5 months, I was down 25 lbs and I noticed my jeans were way too loose on me, which made me go ? because it was surprising and I guess I hadn’t really paid attention until then.

I hit the mall and tried on some new jeans, and I fit in a size 34! You can bet I treated myself that day.

They weren’t expensive jeans (I think I was at Express Men) but the fact that I was buying a size 34″ was a treat in itself.

Whatever it is, set that goal, hit it, and then do something nice for yourself. You deserve it!

Big Guy Style Tip #5: Keep sizing down until you can’t anymore, then start sizing up

The fact of the matter is, most guys (big, small, short, tall) wear their clothes too big.

And as a big guy, the issue with that is multiplied ten-fold; big, loose clothing makes you look bigger! So you want to size down.

Here’s a little trick to finding the right fit—combine this method with tip #1. Let’s say you normally wear an XXL and you think that’s your size.

Next time you’re shopping, find a shirt (or pair of pants, or jacket) you like and take a M, L, XL, and XXL into the fitting room.
Start with the XXL, and work your way down.
Put each item on and keep sizing down until you literally cannot fasten the pants or button the shirt any more.
Maybe you manage to put on the medium shirt but your arms look like sausages and you can’t button it closed in the front. Great.
Then, start sizing up again one by one to achieve the best fit.

You might end up at a Large, and that fits great. Perfect!

Or maybe it turns out that XL fits just fine, and you’ve been wearing shirts that are too big.

(Don’t forget to test the fit by sitting down in a chair!)

You never would’ve figured this out if you didn’t try on multiple sizes of the same shirt!

Remember that a well-fitting item of clothing won’t necessarily feel as comfortable as a big, billowy T-shirt or baggy sweatpants. That’s because clothes that fit well are closer to your body. You will feel them on your skin!

So always remember when trying on clothes:

Just because you feel the cloth on your skin, doesn’t mean it’s too tight.
And just because it’s super comfortable—like your baggy sweats and oversized tees—doesn’t mean it fits well or makes you look good.

Keep in mind: Not all sizes are equal across brands. One brand’s Medium size is another brand’s Large. You have to go through this process with each new brand you try.

That’s why I always suggest when you find a brand or brands that work well for you, stick with them and buy all your clothes there.

Big Guy Style Tip #6 (a bonus!): Thicker and heavier fabrics drape better

Think oxford cloth shirts, twill dress shirts, flannels, etc. These shirts are made with a more substantial fabric and drape—or “lay”—better on your body.

Because of their weight, these shirts have structure and they make you look better because they aren’t hugging every luscious curve of yours.

If you’re wearing a tee by itself, it should fit like this. Perfect sleeve length, shoulder seam hits right where it’s supposed to, and there’s a bit more room in the torso so it’s not hugging every curve of your body

So if you wear a T-shirt under a knit sweater, it’s not as easy to hide the parts you’re looking to hide (and let’s be honest, when you’re overweight, you’re always trying to hide something or make it look a bit less conspicuous).

But let’s say you wear a heavier overshirt or “shacket” over a T-shirt, well, that will do a much better job at complementing your shape and hiding any body insecurities you don’t like.

This is a good example. The model is wearing a sport coat over a dress shirt. The sport coat has more structure and is designed to give you a waist, making you look slimmer. Whole outfit available at Bonobos

Yes, you can dress sharp, even as a bigger guy

And hopefully this article helps you realize that!

Got any questions? Feel free to reach out to me on social media.

Fashion For Big Guys: 5 Tips To Look Great Today (And As You Lose Weight)

You wouldn’t wear a fur-lined parka in the desert in the middle of summer, would you?

When it’s 90 degrees Fahrenheit outside, is the first thing you grab your heavy wool peacoat?

(I hope not… weirdo)

We generally switch out our thicker, heavier clothes when spring shows up, and in again when autumn rolls back around. Why wouldn’t we do the same with our shoes?

If this thought hadn’t yet occurred to you—and don’t worry, it’s not something we talk about often—let me present to you my favorite men’s summer shoes… 5 warm weather-appropriate pairs that are worthy additions to your closet!

Summer shoe #1: Espadrilles

Left to right: Soludos, Sea Star Beachwear

If you’re like me, you’re heading for the nearest body of water as often as you can, just like every other spring and summer.

Espadrilles are the perfect shoe for these getaways.

The most common style consists of a flexible sole—traditionally made from Esparto rope, though modern versions most likely are made from jute or other natural fiber—plus a cotton or canvas upper.

Because of how espadrilles look and are designed, they’re best worn in tropical, warm-weather places—you’re not wearing these in Chicago in the winter—or when you’re on the coast, at the beach, or at the pool.

Soludos is an easy go-to for good-looking espadrilles in a variety of uppers, from canvas to leather (the leather versions are more “around town” appropriate).

Sea Star Beachwear reimagined the espadrille while keeping its aesthetic largely the same, making their version with a neoprene upper and a deck shoe sole.

Summer shoe #2: Knit sneakers

Left to right: Cole Haan trainer, Nike Flyknit, Cole Haan tennis shoe

Here’s why a knit shoe is necessary for your summer wardrobe:

It’s a great substitute for your go-to full leather sneakers
It’ll keep you cooler as the weather warms up
They’re super lightweight and flexible
They’ll keep you comfortable even as your feet expand and shrink (totally happens as you move throughout your day!)

You can go with a classic tennis sneaker silhouette or a trainer with a more sporty look – you’re wearing these casually anyway.

Summer shoe #3: Tan leather loafer or double monk

Penny Loafer and Double Monk from Ace Marks

The tan leather loafer—specifically one with an apron toe—or a sharp double monk (or both!) are the best possible additions to your lean wardrobe.

Not only do they go with suits and more formal-leaning outfits, they easily dress up a smart sharp casual look. You can wear them with jeans, chinos, dress trousers… the options are endless.

I love this tan, cognac color in particular because it’s a bit more fun than your typical dark brown or black, and much more appropriate in the spring and summer as well.

They work with all your menswear neutrals and your lighter-colored summer outfits. My favorite combo is a pair of tan leather loafers with white denim and a navy linen shirt or sport coat. Super crisp and sharp!

This penny and double monk from Ace Marks are the perfect examples.

The penny has a supple full-grain calfskin leather upper that’s been hand dyed and burnished and a leather sole featuring Blake Flex construction… super flexible and comfortable. And yes, you can resole them.

The double monk is from Ace Marks’ new Essentials line, with the same supple full-grain calfskin leather upper and a Blake-stitched rubber outsole.

Ace Marks Penny Loafer Price: Starting at $149

By the way, thanks to Ace Marks for partnering with us on this article!

The brand is releasing two new lines, Signatures and Essentials, and the Essentials line is particularly noteworthy.

If you’re in the process of building out your Lean Wardrobe as we outline here on Effortless Gent, you’re gonna need a few pairs of dress shoes, and the Essentials line is right up your alley.

Every shoe in the Essentials line exists because they’re classics that belong in every man’s closet.

For the price, the quality is unmatched—you’re getting full-grain calfskin leather with flexible, Blake-stitched rubber outsoles (especially great when it’s slippery out) that can be resoled—all under $150!

If you don’t already have at least one pair of Ace Marks shoes, you need to check them out. Tap here to check out all the Ace Marks lines.

Summer shoe #4: Unlined Italian loafers

Top to bottom, left to right: Cole Haan, Hugo Boss, To Boot New York, Meermin

You may be wondering, “Why would I need two different loafers?”

The tan leather loafer from Ace Marks is perfect for the office, or worn with denim for dinner and drinks on the weekend.

This second loafer looks very similar, but is unlined, made from suede, and is much more casual yet still super sharp… think linen or light cotton pants, or even sharp tailored shorts with a linen shirt.

These loafers look perfectly at home on the coast, whether Miami or Positano, as well as in the city when the sun is beating down and you want to look sharp and put together… but they feel loose and laid back.

It’s not always easy to find the perfect lightweight, unlined, suede, apron toe loafer. The best I’ve seen recently is from Meermin (in the photo, first pair in the second row).

If you can get close—i.e. have most or some of these qualities: lightweight, unlined, suede, apron toe—then, good enough!

Summer shoe #5: Suede chukkas

Top to bottom, left to right: Clarks, John Varvatos, Trask, Gordon Rush

The key word you want to remember for your summer clothes and shoes: Unlined.

Your sport coats should be unlined. Your loafers, unlined. And your chukkas too!

Chukka styles can vary, but the specific one I’m suggesting is lightweight, with an unlined suede upper and a crepe sole.

Leather uppers can work during the summer as well, just make sure the leather is soft and unstructured. So can leather soles (though they’re decidedly more dressy).

The best summer-friendly chukkas are lightweight, unlined, and unstructured.

You’ll love these with lightweight denim or cotton chinos around town, and they’re the perfect spring and summer traveling shoe (easy to slip on and off at the airport security line).

The Best Men’s Shoes For Spring and Summer!

Which ones are you adding to your wardrobe this season?

Thanks again to our friends at Ace Marks for partnering with us. Make sure to check out their new Signature and Essentials lines here.

5 Shoe Styles Worth Considering for Spring and Summer

I’ve always said that guys should focus on building a Lean Wardrobe made up of menswear neutrals.

That’s because when you have a closet full of basics and essentials in neutral colors, it’s easy to put outfits together and you know you won’t mess up your clothing color combinations.

But what if you wanted to add just a bit of color to your outfits?

I’m not talking orange pants or a bright pink shirt, but maybe a touch of orange or pink, somewhere in your outfit, so your look isn’t so… boring?

Here are 5 areas you can add a pop of color to your outfit.

Good news for you –

they’re all relatively low-risk,
you can experiment without investing too much,
and you can do it quickly and easily!

5 Areas To Add A Pop Of Color

1. Your Socks

Nordstrom, Ted Baker, Calvin Klein

This is an obvious choice, and of course there are a plethora of options out nowadays, but I encourage you to do this with a healthy dose of subtlety.

You don’t need to wear the loudest, most vibrant socks. Adding a pop of color is like enjoying a finger of scotch vs. chugging a 1/2 liter of beer. You’re going for a small dose of it, simple and effective.

So look for socks that are more understated… a color and pattern combination a true connoisseur or clotheshorse would appreciate.

2. Your Belt

(click to enlarge image) Get Your Anson Belt Box Set

If you ask me, Anson Belt is the obvious choice here.

You have plenty of options for strap colors and materials, the buckle and strap combos are completely customizable, the no-hole ratchet system allows for multiple sizing (adjustable to every 1/4″), which means you’re not stuck with only 5 sizes like a typical belt.

I’ve been wearing Anson for years and I’ve since replaced all my belts with theirs. (No joke, I have at least 5 in my rotation)

If you haven’t tried them before, they’re worth a shot. Anson’s also got 13,000+ 4- and 5-star reviews, so you can rest easy knowing you’re getting an awesome belt.

By the way, I suggest going the box set route. You get 3 belt straps and 2 buckles (or 2 belt straps and 3 buckles, though I’d choose the former) for under $100.

Anson Belt Box Set Price: $99.95 Your choice of 3 straps and 2 buckles, or vice versa!

3. Bracelets

Half rope cuff, Cuff, Hook rope, Leather bracelet, all from Miansai

I like buying accessories when I travel.

My latest purchase is a leather bracelet from Sayulita, a small beach town in Mexico, where I spent a week with good friends (and officiated my first wedding!).

Good memories, a great accessory, and I’m reminded of the fun times we had whenever I wear it.

If you don’t travel much, or simply want to accessorize NOW, I suggest checking out the bracelets from Miansai. Their bracelets feel elevated and polished, and they have a nice selection of unique styles. Above are a few of my faves!

4. Your Shoes

Ace Marks blue loafers and green double monks, Fratelli Rossetti Dusty pink tassel loafers, Fort Belvedere color laces

This one might not be that obvious, but you can go for shoes from brands that offer unique leather colors and patinas.

Ace Marks is a good example of this. Fratelli Rossetti, a luxury shoe brand founded in the 1940s in Italy, also carries shoes with fun colors.

And if you can’t commit to a colorful shoe, you can take a baby step by lacing your brown brogues with colorful laces. The ones you see above are from Fort Belvedere.

5. Everyday Carry

Moleskine Notebook, TwelveSouth iPhone case, Carl Friedrik backpack, Bellroy Card Holder

Think of the things you carry with you every day. These, effectively, are a part of your whole look as well.

So experiment with colorful EDC items like your wallet, key fob, notebooks, bag, and more. And don’t feel like all your everyday carry items have to match; they can, but they don’t have to.

The #1 Rule For Adding Pops Of Color

Keep in mind the number one rule when it comes to incorporating pops of color into your outfits.

You want to make sure your base outfit is made up of menswear neutrals, and if you do that, adding little pops of color here and there is much easier, and you won’t have to worry about clashing or looking like the inside of a Sanrio store.

What’s your favorite way to add a pop of color to your outfit?

I hope you found these tips helpful! Quick shout out and a huge thanks to Anson Belt for partnering with us on this article.

When brands I love work with me, it allows me to continue putting useful style content for you, for free! So please support the brands that support EG. And definitely grab yourself an Anson box set.

Like I mentioned earlier in the article, over the years I’ve replaced all my belts with these, and now they’re all I wear. Check em out below!

Anson Belt Box Set Price: $99.95 Your choice of 3 straps and 2 buckles, or vice versa!

Guys: 5 Easy Ways To Add a Pop of Color To Your Outfits

With clocks on every digital interface we encounter, wristwatches may seem pointless. But the best men’s watches are about more than just telling time.

Much like attention-getting socks or a cheeky monogram inside a suit jacket, the right wristwatch showcases the wearer’s personality in a unique way.

A wristwatch is the one accessory that not only serves a specific purpose, but also stands the test of time. You won’t look at photos of yourself twenty years from now and say, “Oh man, how embarrassing, I can’t believe I’m wearing a watch in this photo!”

Since we’re striving for classic and timeless when possible, you should know a little something about your options before you make a purchase.

So in this guide to the best men’s watches, you’ll learn the design and features that make our recommended timepieces stand out from the crowd.

And since we’re all about dressing smart and sharp no matter the setting, we’ll show you:

parts of a watch (so you know what you’re referring to and talking about)
the best watches for each type of outfit
where each watch fits on the casual / formal spectrum
our top 5 picks for the best watches to add to your wardrobe

Links To All Sections

Parts of a Watch
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Watch Movement

Watch movements can be quartz or mechanical, and mechanic movements can be further broken down into manual and automatic.

Let’s dive into each.

Watches with mechanical movements use a set of tiny, intricate gears to release the energy from a wound spring and calculate time based on that energy release. An easy way to spot a mechanical watch is the sweeping motion of the second hand.

Manual mechanical watches require physical rewinding while automatic mechanical movements rewind themselves using the energy created by the wearer’s wrist motion throughout the day.

Quartz watch movements use a battery to send an electric current through a small piece of quartz crystal. That produces vibrations which power the movement of the watch and measure time. You can spot a quartz movement watch easily by the jerky tick of the second hand.

So which is the best watch movement for you? It all depends on your lifestyle and budget.

If you want a budget timepiece for everyday wear, go with a quartz movement. But for an investment-worthy dress watch you want to wear for decades, mechanical is the best watch movement.

Watch Case

A watch case is the main body that houses the movement. If it’s made from or mimics a precious metal (gold, silver, platinum, etc.), there’s a good chance your watch is more on the formal side.

If the watch case parts are made from steel, plastic, or other materials (ceramic, titanium, carbon fiber, etc.), it’s most likely not a formal watch.

A quick note on watch case sizing

Most men’s watch cases are 36mm-50mm in diameter.

Formal and luxury watch cases are typically on the smaller side (36-40mm). Sport-specific, fashion, and casual watches vary in size but are usually larger than formal watches.

Some fashion brands take it a bit too far and look like you’re wearing a wall clock on your wrist. Avoid these.

And keep in mind, the right watch size for you is relative. A 42mm watch may look too large on a 6.5″ wrist, but perfect on an 8.25″ wrist.

That’s why it’s important to measure your wrist and try on a few different watches.

Click to enlarge in new tab

Watch Face and Dial

Stick or Roman numeral indices tend to be found in more formal watches. Arabic numbers appear on more casual watches. Of course, there are exceptions to both.

Is the dial elegant and simple, or does it have multiple functions and complications?

The simpler and more elegant the watch parts, the more formal the watch. The more sport-specific task or feature rich (stopwatch, time zones, depth measurement), the more casual it is.

Watch Strap

The best watch straps vary from style to style. Here’s a simple way to identify which strap will look right with your attire.

Worn-in leather looks better dressed down with jeans than it does with a suit. Thicker, bulkier straps are better with casual outfits, as do nylon straps.
Glossy, slim, and thin leather bands best complement formal attire. They usually look out of place with denim and other casual clothes.
Metal bands can go either way. But if your watch is sport-specific (chronographs, divers, etc.) it’s meant for more casual wear, or that particular sport.
Rubber straps are decidedly sport-specific – save them for time when you’re active.

The 5 Types of Watches
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Dress Watches

Best for

Formal settings

Characteristics

Slim, understated profile
Metal case
Simple watch face
Leather strap
Analog

When attending a formal event – anything from a traditional wedding to a black tie event – a classic and understated men’s dress watch is best.

Your accessories should match the formality of the setting, so a simply styled watch with a light-colored face and black leather strap is perfect. (It goes without saying that your leather shoes and belt should also be black.)

For “dressy casual” or business casual situations when you’re still in a suit and / or tie, a similar watch with brown leather band would fit the bill.

While it’s possible to get by with an all-purpose wristwatch in most instances, there’s something special about having one specifically for formal or special business occasions.

Fashion Watches

Best for

Casual, smart casual, and professional settings

Characteristics

Larger case
Metal or leather bracelet
Activity specific features built-in to the watch face
Analog

Metal fashion watches can be used in a variety of casual situations. They combine form and function in a way that speaks to your personal style.

Fashion watches aren’t right for formal settings, but they can work with just about any other situation. For example, I have a Gucci Pantheon steel watch. It works just as well casually with jeans and a T-shirt as it does in a professional setting when I’m wearing a suit.

Want a fashion or sports watch that’s just as flexible? In that case, the best men’s watches for you will have understated designs and unadorned watch faces.

Activity-specific fashion watches have built-in features that are purpose driven. For example, diving watches are built to withstand underwater pressure. Pilot watches have large, easy-to-read numerals and dials.

But you don’t have to be a pilot, diver, or race car driver to enjoy watches that are specifically built and designed for these activities. It comes down to preference, so just make sure you’re wearing it in the right situations–in this case, not to a formal event.

Sport Watches

Best for

Active/Sports settings

Characteristics

Large but lightweight
Rubber or nylon straps
Sport-specific features built in to the watch face
Digital or analog

Sport watches are fun to have when you’re working out, playing sports, or being active. They’re lightweight, can take a beating, an are easy to clean up after a sweaty game or workout.

These watches have built-in features like timers (or chronographs if analog), water resistance (for diving and swimming), backlit screens or dials (for nighttime use), compasses, and altimeters.

Because of their strap material, large faces, and plethora of features, these watches are very activity specific. They’re best worn only when doing something active – they’re totally wrong for formal settings and can sometimes even be overkill for a casual outfit.

Casual Watches

Best for

Everyday wear, casual settings

Characteristics

Smaller watch face
Metal casing
Nylon, leather, or metal strap
Affordable

These are the best men’s watches for when you’re not going anywhere in particular and you don’t need a special watch for the occasion. Think situations like low-key weekends, running errands, seeing a movie, etc.

Since these watches are daily wearers, there’s nothing wrong with choosing a more affordable option if restricted by budget. You can find stylish men’s casual watches with leather, nylon, or metal straps in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and designs.

Smart Watches

Best for

Everyday wear, sports/fitness, professional settings

Characteristics

Large touchscreen face
Interchangeable straps

Smartwatches represent the modern marriage of fashion and technology. For that reason, it’s hard to pin them down into one category or degree of formality. In most cases, you can fit a smartwatch into one of the above categories and style them similarly. Consider these three factors before you head out wearing a smartwatch:

Design. A GPS running or fitness watch is activity specific and should be worn much like a sports watch. An Apple Watch with productivity apps you use while working will fit into both casual and professional settings.

Strap. Sports-focused smartwatches often come with rubber straps, so wear them as you would any other sports watch. In the case of multi-use smartwatches with interchangeable straps (like the Apple Watch), make sure the strap you choose fits the setting. Rubber for sports, nylon for casual, and metal or leather for smart or business casual.

Watch face. Fitness smartwatches typically have large digital displays that give them a casual look and feel that’s hard to dress up. Other smartwatches have optional displays, including analog-style faces. Those are best for smart casual and business settings.

Best Men’s Dress Watches
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Here are the factors we look for when choosing the best men’s dress watches:

Case: Relatively thin and made from steel or precious metal.
Strap: Leather or some type of exotic animal hide, sometimes metal.
Face/Dial: Simple stick or roman dial with light-colored, neutral, unadorned details.
Movement: Mechanical in luxury watches, quartz in less expensive options.

Best Everyday Men’s Watches
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The perfect everyday watch is classically styled, not too sporty, and can still be worn with a blazer. At the same time, it can’t look so dressy that it feels out of place with denim.

Most of all, it can’t be so expensive or fragile that you’d be scared to scratch it up or break it. After all, you want to be able to wear this watch in just about any circumstances.

Your perfect everyday watch, much like your perfect Lean Wardrobe, will depend on your preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Here are a few that you may like, or at the very least, a few that will incite you to explore more and find one on your own.